Truth 101 Class

  Deuteronomy 9:1-12 emphasize that it is God's faithfulness to the covenant and His righteousness in punishing the wicked that will enable Israel to defeat the mighty nations in the Promised Land.  Israel is warned against a proud heart and reminded of their stubborn rebellion from the time they left Egypt to now. Even at Horeb or Mount Sinai, when God was giving them the Commandments, they had made the graven image of a golden calf (ref. Exodus 32).  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-3 These verses say "today" or "now" is the time when the long-awaited promise of the Land is to be fulfilled. What should I remember when facing something I have long anticipated, know will change my life, but have substantial concerns about? Verses 4-6 These verses remind Israel three times that they are being given the Land NOT because of their righteousness.  How might this also be a warning to me about having...

  Deuteronomy 8:11-20 warn against pride and forgetting the LORD in times of prosperity.  Instead, the people are to remember that God delivers, protects, and provides. They are again urged to remain obedient and not follow other gods. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 11-18 What are some ways I can avoid lifting my heart up in pride and instead remember the LORD? Verses 19-20 Matthew 6:24 warns, "No one can serve two masters...You cannot serve God and money."  What are some consequences when wealth becomes an idol?

  Deuteronomy 8:1-10 remind God's people to observe the commandments and fear the LORD both in the desolation of the wilderness as well as in the abundance of the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 What are some reasons why God might allow us to go through difficult "wilderness experiences" in our lives? Jesus quoted verse 3 when responding to the devil's temptation in the wilderness (ref. Matthew 4:4 and Luke 4:4).  What does it mean for me to not live by bread alone but by the word of God?  Verses 6-10 Why is it important to keep God's commandments, walk in His ways, and fear Him not only during times of hardship but also abundance? For music that includes Deuteronomy 8:3 quoted in the Gospel of Matthew, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Seek Ye First" by Maranatha! Music: Link

  Deuteronomy 7:12-26 remind Israel of the blessings of obedience and keeping the covenant. These verses also emphasize that remembering who God is and what He has done in the past can help overcome fears. This passage closes with strong language regarding idols, using terms like abomination, detest, abhor, and destruction. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 12-16 What do these verses show about blessings and fruitfulness? Verses 17-24 What can help me to overcome my fears? Verses 25-26 Given the strong warnings against idols in these verses, is there anything I should change or address in my views or actions regarding idols? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Do Not Be Terrified By Them" (Deuteronomy 7:21): Link

  Deuteronomy 7:1-11 describe the judgment for the seven pagan nations currently occupying the Promised Land. Israel is also reminded that they are a chosen people to be holy and set apart for God. Just as God is faithful to keep His covenant with them, His people are to keep God's commandments, statutes, and rules. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 The people of God were assured of victory even though the nations occupying the Land were "more numerous and mightier" than they.  What gives me assurance of victory whenever faced with many major challenges in my life? Verses 6-11 What do these verses show me about God choosing me? God's people are His "treasured possession."  What type of treasure might I most identify with? Some examples from Scripture include: Precious stones in the ephod, such as emerald, sapphire, and diamond, like leaders representing God's people (ref. Exodus 28:15...

  Deuteronomy 6:10-25 warn Israel against forgetting the LORD after they receive the great cities, houses, cisterns, vineyards, and olive trees in the Promised Land - things they did not build, fill, dig, or plant. They are to fear God and keep His commandments. For the Law teaches how to live as God's covenant people, freed from slavery.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 10-12 What achievements or blessings have I received that I should remember as coming from God rather than from my own efforts? Verses 13-19 NOTE:  The story of Israel testing God at Massah is recorded in Exodus 17:1-7. Jesus quoted verses 13 and 16 when He was tempted by Satan in the wilderness (ref. Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13). Unlike Israel, Jesus did not fall into sin and disobedience.  So, how can I learn from Jesus's example when fighting temptation? Verses 20-25 How would I answer if I were asked to explain the meaning of...